Audi Q8 prepares for Middle East debut
Posted by Zaran Tarapore on Jun 11, 2018
The Audi Q8, the flagship model in the brand’s line-up, is a mid-size SUV that is set to land on Middle Eastern shores in autumn 2018. Richly equipped, comprehensively connected and tough enough for off-road duty, it is a confident companion for business and leisure.
Sporting the new face of the "Q" family, the brawny radiator grille stands upright and denotes a sense of power. As intimidating as it may be, it is complimented by a protruding, contrast spoiler that has been drawn towards the large, gaping air inlets. The bold contours that embellish its bodywork convey a feeling a power and sophistication.
Standing at 4.99 meters long, 2.00 meters wide and 1.71 meters tall, the Q8 is wider, shorter and lower than its Q7 sibling. With a wheelbase of nearly 3.00 meters, it offers a spacious interior that beats its direct competitors (BMW X6 & Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe) in most relevant dimensions, including interior length and headroom.
Staying true to the saying "Audi is Quattro and Quattro is Audi", the Q8 flaunts a mechanical center differential that transfers power to front and rear axles at a ratio of 40:60 as standard. Coupled with its 254mm ground clearance and short overhangs are hill descent control and adaptive dampers that allow the Q8 to continue exploring after the tarmac ends.
When behind the wheel, the optional all-wheel steering turns the rear wheels as much as 5-degrees to counter the direction of the turn at low speeds for easier maneuverability and in the direction of the turn at high speeds for better stability.
With mild hybrid technology (MHEV) as standard on all Q8 models, there’s a 48-volt primary electrical system that recovers up to 12 kW of power when braking and feeds it back into the battery. The MHEV technology enables long coasting phases with the engine deactivated and a start-stop range that begins at 22 km/h.
Editor's Pick:
Audi A8 2018 launched in Dubai
Also See:
Cameras in Ajman to catch motorists with expired registration